Commentary

When Harry has finished recounting the story of his experience in the Chamber of Secrets, and Dumbledore has dismissed everyone else from his office, he asks Harry to have a seat. He thanks Harry for the loyalty that called Fawkes to him in the Chamber, then opens the discussion up to Harry regarding his meeting with the teenage Tom Riddle--perhaps knowing or anticipating Harry's anxieties about their similarities. Addressing Harry's concerns, Dumbledore says, "It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities."

The idea of choices determining one's true nature, as opposed to abilities, is perhaps most easily considered through the lens of different creatures in the Wizarding World, as they have very different abilities and powers in accordance with their species. When those with different abilities or circumstances make an ethical or unethical choice, that choice shapes the arc of their lives and the judgment of their characters. This truth is illustrated many times throughout the series, as discussed here.